In cases of life-threatening hemorrhage due to streptokinase, which agent may be administered?

Aminocaproic acid is utilized in cases of life-threatening hemorrhage, particularly as a fibrinolytic antagonist. It works by inhibiting the activation of plasminogen to plasmin, thereby slowing down the process of fibrinolysis, which is the breakdown of fibrin in blood clots. When streptokinase is administered, it promotes clot dissolution, but in scenarios where hemorrhage occurs, particularly if it is life-threatening, the use of aminocaproic acid can help stabilize the situation by preventing further clot degradation.

In contrast, fibrinogen is a clotting factor that contributes to the formation of clots, but it does not have a role in specifically controlling hemorrhage caused by the fibrinolytic action of streptokinase. Heparin, as an anticoagulant, would further complicate a bleeding scenario, as it prevents blood clot formation rather than reversing fibrinolysis. Prothrombin, another clotting factor, is also not indicated for counteracting the effects of fibrinolytic agents like streptokinase. Thus, aminocaproic acid stands out as the appropriate choice in managing severe bleeding in such clinical circumstances.